This casserole is the perfect blend of comfort and flavor, combining savory ground beef, colorful bell peppers, and a generous layer of melted cheese. It’s a dish that feels hearty yet vibrant, offering both nourishment and satisfaction. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—basic ingredients come together to create a meal that looks impressive and tastes even better.
The beef provides a rich, savory base, while the bell peppers add sweetness and crunch. The cheese ties everything together, melting into a golden, bubbly topping that makes each bite irresistible. This casserole is ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep, as it reheats beautifully and maintains its flavor. It’s a dish that celebrates everyday cooking while delivering the kind of comfort food everyone craves.
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, and green), sliced into strips
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup tomato sauce
INSTRUCTION:
- Prepare the beef base: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small crumbles. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano.
- Add the peppers: Stir in sliced bell peppers and cook for 5–7 minutes until they soften slightly but retain some crunch.
- Incorporate tomato sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce and stir well, allowing the mixture to simmer for 5 minutes. This creates a flavorful base for the casserole.
- Layer the casserole: Transfer the beef and pepper mixture into a baking dish. Spread evenly to form the bottom layer.
- Add the cheese topping: Sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar cheese generously over the top, ensuring full coverage.
- Bake to perfection: Place the dish in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
- Serve warm: Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and makes slicing easier.
SERVINGS:
This recipe serves 6 people generously. It can be scaled up for larger gatherings or halved for a smaller meal.
NOTE:
- Colorful presentation: Using red, yellow, and green bell peppers not only enhances flavor but also makes the dish visually appealing.
- Cheese choice: Mozzarella provides stretch and creaminess, while cheddar adds sharpness. Adjust ratios to suit your taste.
- Meal prep friendly: This casserole stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave for a quick meal.
- Optional additions: For extra depth, add mushrooms or zucchini to the beef mixture.
- Serving suggestion: Pair with a simple green salad or crusty bread to balance the richness of the casserole.
- Family favorite: This dish is versatile enough to please both adults and children, making it a reliable go-to for weeknight dinners.
Final Thoughts
Cheesy Beef and Bell Pepper Casserole is a celebration of everyday comfort food. It’s hearty, flavorful, and easy to prepare, yet it looks impressive enough to serve at gatherings. The combination of savory beef, sweet peppers, and gooey cheese creates a dish that feels indulgent but remains approachable. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or simply yourself, this casserole delivers warmth, satisfaction, and a burst of flavor in every bite.